What type of pumpkin is best for this dish?

A small round pumpkin around 2 lbs works great as it’s easier to slice and roast evenly while holding the jack-o-lantern shape.

Can other vegetables be used for decorating?

Yes, carrots or eggplant slices can substitute bell peppers and zucchini for different colors and textures.

Lightly toss the slices in olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to enhance roasted flavors.

Arrange them on parchment-lined baking sheets and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes until tender and caramelized.

Chopped fresh parsley and toasted pumpkin seeds add a fresh, crunchy finish to the roasted plate.

A festive and fun dish featuring roasted pumpkin and colorful vegetables arranged to resemble a jack-o-lantern—perfect for a Halloween celebration.

I love making this during Halloween as it brings the whole family together and makes dinner exciting for the kids.

Vegetables: 1 small round pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch slices, 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into thin strips, 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced into thin strips, 1 small zucchini, sliced into rounds, 1 small red onion, sliced into thin wedges
Seasonings: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnishes: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds (pepitas), toasted

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:: Arrange the pumpkin slices in a large circle on the baking sheet to form the shape of a pumpkin face.
Step 3:: Use bell pepper strips to outline the eyes, nose, and mouth of the jack-o-lantern. Fill in with zucchini and red onion for color and contrast.
Step 4:: Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, then sprinkle with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Step 5:: Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 6:: Carefully transfer the roasted lantern to a serving platter, maintaining the jack-o-lantern face.
Step 7:: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and toasted pumpkin seeds before serving.

Making this recipe has become a special family tradition every Halloween that my kids eagerly anticipate.

Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Chefs knife, Cutting board

Contains seeds (pumpkin seeds). Recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Check all packaged ingredients for potential allergens.

Calories: 120 per serving. Total Fat: 7 g. Carbohydrates: 15 g. Protein: 2 g.

This pumpkin lantern plate is sure to brighten up any Halloween gathering. Enjoy the festive flavors and fun presentation!

→ What type of pumpkin is best for this dish?: A small round pumpkin around 2 lbs works great as it’s easier to slice and roast evenly while holding the jack-o-lantern shape.
→ Can other vegetables be used for decorating?: Yes, carrots or eggplant slices can substitute bell peppers and zucchini for different colors and textures.
→ How should the vegetables be seasoned?: Lightly toss the slices in olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to enhance roasted flavors.
→ What’s the best way to roast the pumpkin and vegetables?: Arrange them on parchment-lined baking sheets and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
→ Are there any suggested garnishes?: Chopped fresh parsley and toasted pumpkin seeds add a fresh, crunchy finish to the roasted plate.